R&D Pilot Plant Operator I chez The LYCRA Company

The LYCRA Company is a premier supplier of differentiated fiber products from a global manufacturing base with assets in Europe, USA, Mexico, Brazil, China and Singapore. 

Our Apparel business works with leading consumer brands, retailers, and fabric mills all over the world to leverage our innovative brand fibers including LYCRA® fiber, COOLMAX® fabric, THERMOLITE® fabric, SUPPLEX® fabric and TACTEL® fiber.  The LYCRA Company is a leading supplier in the global apparel markets including ready-to-wear, intimate apparel, swimwear, activewear, outdoor and career apparel.  

Location:    Waynesboro, VA, USA   

The position of Research & Development (R&D) Pilot Plant Operator I encompasses multiple responsibilities that assist the R&D spinning area.  Key responsibilities of this role include, but are not limited to: 

• Efficient operation of Pilot Plant textile fiber Spinning Cells.
• Collection and Analysis of fiber  samples.
• Process Control Network (PCN)  interfacing.
• Close Collaboration with Test Authors (Scientists).
• Diligent adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOCs).
• Adaptable to an ever-changing R&D environment.
• Work a 12-hour rotating shift schedule. 

This full-time position is eligible for the following benefits:

• Competitive market hourly wages; starting salary $28.18/hr., $29.68/hr. after training.
• Shift Differentials of $1.00 for night shifts.
• Overtime hours built into two-week schedule, plus additional overtime opportunities.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive Benefits offerings including Medical, Dental, and Vision.
• 401k Plan - 3% Company contribution PLUS dollar-for-dollar match up to 6% employee contribution.
• Paid Vacation - up to 2 weeks at the date of hire, 3 weeks after 1 year, 4 weeks after 2 years, etc.
• Ten paid holidays.
• Educational Assistance Program.
• Opportunities for career advancement.

Demonstrated Behaviors: 

• Committed to the highest standards and adherence to Environmental, Health and Safety practices and policies.
• Actively participates in improvement initiatives around productivity and quality.
• Uses troubleshooting skills to solve problems, while seeking best knowledge to ensure safety and compliance.  
• Demonstrates self-motivated behavior, identifies ways to improve efficiency and productivity and works to implement improvements.  
• Demonstrates effective verbal and written communication skills.  
• Possesses strong observational and critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrates teamwork, collaboration and adaptability to changing work environment and business needs.
• Completes tasks with minimal supervision.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions: 

• Ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) as is required by the operating areas (i.e. safety glasses, protective footwear, hearing protection and at times, a respirator).
• The ability to pass and maintain respiratory fit test certification, including maintaining a clean-shaven face for proper respirator seal.
• The ability to sit, stand (up to 5 hours), walk (up to 4 hours), bend/stoop, twist, crouch, kneel, balance and reach at shoulder level and below shoulder level, climb stairs, work indoors and in outdoor environment.
• Occasionally lift 20-75 pounds.  
• Occasionally push/pull up to 100 pounds.
• Occasionally carry 20-75 pounds.
• Must pass a physical abilities test.  

Qualifications (Required) 

• Associate degree  
• Willing and able to work a 48/36 split, 12-hour rotating shift.
• Demonstrates strong communication skills as a key member of a collaborative R&D team.

Qualifications (Preferred) 

• Bachelor’s degree  
• Any additional experience, skills, or training that may be related to the position. 

As a principled-based organization, The LYCRA Company is committed to a fair, respectful, and equitable workplace that embraces diversity and reflects the communities in which it operates. This helps foster an environment where employees feel valued, fulfilled, and able to achieve their full potential. Furthermore, we believe that a diverse workforce operating in such an environment is central to our success, as we need not only the right skill sets but also a wide breadth of perspectives and ideas, diverse life experiences, & a seamless collaboration between employees to achieve our company purpose of “enhancing life through innovative garment solutions.